Kevin De Bruyne’s surgery successful — But what vomes next for the Belgian star?

Belgium & Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne faces race against time to recover for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after suffering severe hamstring tear during his side’s 3-1 victory over Inter Milan last weekend.

The 34 year old collapsed in pain immediately after converting penalty prompting instant concern.

Subsequent tests revealed major hamstring rupture forcing him to undergo successful surgery in Antwerp earlier this week.

Long layoff & uncertain timeline

Napoli confirmed De Bruyne’s operation went smoothly but gave no specific timeline for his return.

According to The Sun, sources close to the player fear he could be out for at least four months effectively ruling him out of the rest of Napoli’s Serie A campaign and putting his World Cup participation in serious jeopardy.

"The tear occurred in the same area as his 2023 injury while at Man City, which had already required months of recovery" the report noted.

The Belgian international who joined Napoli earlier this season has featured in just 8 league match registering two goals and 3 assist before the setback.

Napoli fear that De Bruyne’s season may already be over dealing blow to manager Francesco Calzona’s plans as the club battles for Champions League qualification spot.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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